The Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday signed coach Todd Richards to a one-year contract extension, which runs through the 2014-15 season.

"We believe Todd is one of the top young coaches in our game and he has had a steadying influence on our team since taking over as head coach in January 2012," Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said. "The hard work put in by Todd and our coaching staff has been a big reason for our team's improved play and we are excited that he will continue to serve as our head coach."

Richards led Columbus to a 24-17-7 record in 2012-13, and their 55 points tied them with the eighth-place Minnesota Wild in the Western Conference but the Blue Jackets missed earning their second playoff berth due to having three fewer regulation/overtime wins than the Wild.